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IRA Rollovers Cornerstone Guide

The IRA Rollover Guide

Rolling over an IRA is common but easy to get wrong. Here's how to do it without triggering taxes or penalties.

Updated June 8, 2026 10 min readIRA Rollovers
Original infographic in development: The IRA Rollover Guide

An IRA rollover moves retirement money from one account to another. Done right, it's seamless and tax-free; done wrong, it can trigger taxes and penalties.

This cornerstone guide explains the types of rollovers and the rules that protect you.

What an IRA rollover is

Moving funds between retirement accounts and why people do it.

Direct vs. indirect rollovers

Why a direct transfer avoids the risks that come with handling the money yourself.

The 60-day rule and pitfalls

Deadlines and withholding that can cause an accidental taxable event.

Consolidating accounts

The pros and cons of bringing multiple accounts together.

Your options for the money

How rolled-over funds can be positioned for growth or guaranteed income.

This guide is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Tim Hartle is an independent insurance professional. Annuity guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and are not FDIC insured. Rules and product features vary by situation and by state. Please consult a qualified advisor about your own circumstances.

Frequently Asked

Will I owe taxes on an IRA rollover?

A properly executed direct rollover is not taxable. Problems usually arise with indirect rollovers that miss the 60-day deadline or trigger withholding.

What's the difference between a direct and indirect rollover?

In a direct rollover the funds move institution-to-institution; in an indirect rollover the check comes to you and you must redeposit it within 60 days.

How many rollovers can I do per year?

The once-per-year limit applies to indirect IRA-to-IRA rollovers. Direct transfers are not subject to that limit.

Apply This to Your Own Plan

Schedule your complimentary, no-pressure Retirement Income Review with Tim. Call (727) 692-5866 or book below.

Annuities are insurance contracts. Guarantees, including guaranteed lifetime income benefits where available, are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Product features, fees, withdrawal restrictions, and surrender charges vary by contract.